Beef salad in lemon cups

Beef Salad in Lemon Cups – A Delicious and Elegant Treat

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4

When it comes to salads that impress, Beef Salad is definitely at the top of the preferences, bringing a touch of elegance and refined taste to any meal. But, to add an unexpected twist, I suggest serving it in lemon cups. This approach not only looks spectacular but also offers a fresh, citrusy note that perfectly blends the flavors.

A bit of history: Beef Salad was originally created as a festive dish, often found at holiday tables, with simple yet very tasty ingredients. It is a recipe that has evolved over time, having various versions, but its essence remains the same: a delicious mix of meat, vegetables, and mayonnaise.

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast (approx. 300-400g)
- 4 potatoes
- 5-6 pickled cucumbers
- 4 carrots
- 200g mayonnaise
- Salt (to taste)
- Mustard (1-2 tablespoons, optional)
- 1 lemon (for cups)
- White pepper (to taste)
- Peas (optional, for decoration)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the vegetables: potatoes and carrots. Make sure to choose firm potatoes and fresh carrots, as their texture will greatly influence the salad. Cut the potatoes into large cubes for more even boiling. Also, the chicken breast will be cut into larger pieces at first, and then cubed after cooking.

Step 2: Boiling
In a large pot, add enough water to cover all the ingredients. Bring the chicken breast along with the peeled vegetables (potatoes and carrots) to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt and, optionally, a tablespoon of instant soup for extra flavor. Cover the pot and let everything boil over medium heat for about 30 minutes. Don't forget to skim off the foam that forms on the surface for a cleaner taste.

Step 3: Cooling and cutting
After the meat and vegetables have boiled, remove them to a plate and let them cool. When they are cool enough to handle, cut the chicken breast, potatoes, and carrots into small cubes, about 1 cm. This size will ensure a pleasant texture and even integration of the ingredients.

Step 4: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the cubes of meat and vegetables and season with salt and white pepper to taste. If you want a spicier note, add mustard as well. Then, incorporate the mayonnaise, mixing gently to avoid crushing the ingredients. Use a quality mayonnaise, as it will influence the final taste of the salad.

Step 5: Preparing the lemon cups
Cut the lemon in half and carefully scoop out the flesh, being careful not to damage the peel. This can be done with a spoon or a small knife. The lemon peels will be used as containers for the salad, bringing a citrusy freshness to each serving.

Step 6: Filling the cups
Fill each half of the lemon with the Beef Salad mixture. You can add peas on top for a colorful look and a crunchy texture. Arrange the cups on a platter and decorate with a few parsley leaves for an extra splash of color.

Serving suggestions
Beef Salad in lemon cups is a perfect appetizer for festive meals, but it can also be served at a picnic or summer meal. Paired with a glass of cold lemonade or a dry white wine, it will surely become the star of the table.

Tips and variations
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken breast with tofu or a combination of vegetables added with chickpeas.
- For a more intense flavor, you can add sliced green olives or roasted red peppers to the mix.
- Experiment with different types of mayonnaise, such as avocado mayonnaise for a healthier version.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use beef or turkey, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat chosen.
2. How can I make mayonnaise at home?
To make mayonnaise at home, mix an egg yolk with mustard, gradually add oil, and mix until you achieve a creamy consistency.
3. How long can the salad be stored in the fridge?
Beef Salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best taste.

Nutritional benefits
Beef Salad is a good source of protein from chicken breast, vitamins from vegetables, and healthy fats from mayonnaise. It can be a balanced option for a light meal, providing essential nutrients.

Calories
A serving of Beef Salad in lemon cups has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Now it's time to start cooking and surprise your guests with this delicious and innovative recipe! With every bite, you'll bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!